A SOLIHULL dad is urging more Asian families to get involved in the Beautiful Game.
Imran Sadiq from Olton was speaking after his eight year old son Eesah, who plays for Coldlands Colts FC, won Manager’s Player of the Season trophy.
They are a grassroots football club based on Field Lane, Solihull.
Eesah plays in goal and will be moving up to the Under 9s from September playing seven v seven on bigger pitches.
“He and the team have enjoyed a very good season, which included getting to the Cup final, which they sadly lost,” said Imran.
“However not only has he made nine new friends, but his confidence levels have significantly improved and we are ever so grateful to his manager, his teammates and the other parents.
“One thing that has really stood out for us as a family, and for Eesah, is that there are still not enough Asian players involved in the beautiful game, even at the grassroots level.
“Despite going with him to matches and other tournaments, they is a noticeable absence of Asian players/parents in attendance.
“This is despite the FA launching it’s Asian Inclusion Strategy and the Bringing Opportunities to Communities project that was launched in April 2019.”
Imran’s not alone either in urging more Asian families to get involved – none other than England manager Gareth Southgate has spoken out about the need to unearth British South Asian talent.
“We hope that Eesah’s story of his first year in organised football encourages other Asian parents/families to take their sons and daughters to their local grassroots football club,” said Imran.
“By getting engagement from parents/families in the first instance is what will help to support the FA’s long term vision for greater Asian inclusion and participation in football.
“It also results in children being physically active and enjoyed a more active and healthy lifestyle.”
